On April 4, 2013, I held a press briefing to announce I was resigning as Iowa’s Auditor of State, effective May 3, 2013. I have accepted an incredible opportunity which I simply could not refuse. I have been appointed the next Chairman of the Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB) effective July 1, 2013. However, to ensure a smooth transition with the current Chair, I will begin my GASB duties in Norwalk, Connecticut on May 13, 2013. GASB is the body that sets reporting standards for state and local governments throughout the country.
This is a bittersweet time for me. It has been an honor and a privilege to serve as Iowa’s Auditor for the last decade. I have thoroughly enjoyed my tenure. Right now, our state books are in the black. Our current state budgeting practices, if maintained, will keep state government on sound footing long into the future. I take great pride and satisfaction in knowing I played a role in achieving this outcome.
I would like to thank Iowa voters for placing their trust in me to oversee their checkbook for the last ten years. It has been a great experience, and I am very proud of what we have accomplished for the benefit of all Iowans.
I would also like to thank all the people who supported my campaign over the years. Whether you volunteered your time, put a yard sign in your yard, talked about me to your friends, or made a donation to my campaign, you had a critical role in making this journey possible. Thank you.
Finally, I would like to take this opportunity to thank my wonderful staff, from top to bottom. We could not have accomplished all that we have over the last ten years without their complete dedication to the important work they do each day. They are smart, hardworking professionals. Iowans should be very proud of the work they have done and will continue to do for my successor. I would not be where I am today without their unwavering support and friendship, which I will greatly miss as I move on to the exciting challenge of being the next GASB chair.